Rudolph Ackermann & the Regency World

This biography explores the full variety of Rudolph Ackermann’s life, documenting the range of his achievements. These include: designer, publisher, entrepreneur, humanitarian, propagandist, patriot, diplomat, and paterfamilias.

Recognised as one of the most influential figures on design, fashion, and technical innovation in Regency England, Ackermann is perhaps less well known as a conduit between England, continental Europe, and the newly independent countries of Central and South America. In this book his life is traced from his beginnings as an immigrant from Saxony, to his position as a leading figure in art and design, powerful political agent, and friend of the Royal family, Archbishop of Canterbury, and William Wilberforce.

Drawing on new material, including previously unpublished letters, journals, and bank accounts, this text brings the great publisher alive more than ever before. Comprehensively illustrated, it also contains a check-list of over 600 books and prints published by Ackermann during his lifetime.